Driverless cars may obstruct traffic on roads

DRIVERLESS cars could increase congestion on some UK roads for several years, according to a Department for Transport (DfT) study.

Delays on motorways and major roads during peak periods are expected to rise by 0.9 per cent when one in four cars are automated, researchers found.

Early models of driverless cars are expected to operate more cautiously than regular vehicles, resulting in “a potential decrease in effective capacity and a decline in network performance”, the report warned. The analysis suggested that a reduction in congestion may not be achieved until automated vehicles make up 50 per cent to 75 per cent of the fleet.

Steve Gooding, director of motoring research charity the RAC Foundation, said: “As driverless cars come in, traffic flow could initially get worse rather than better, potentially for many years.”

The DfT’s study – which involved using computer software to create virtual models of different parts of the road network – found there could be a 40 per cent cut in peak time delays on motorways and major roads if vehicles are driverless.

Researchers believe urban roads could see average delays cut by 12.4 per cent if just 25 per cent of cars are automated.

The DfT said the report paves the way for further trials and research into driverless vehicles to ensure their development is “safe and beneficial for all”.

Transport minister John Hayes said: “This exciting and extensive study shows that driverless cars could vastly improve the flow of traffic in our towns and cities, offering huge benefits to motorists including reduced delays.”